Vancouver to host 2015 Women’s World Cup gold medal game

Vancouver will host the gold medal game of the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup and eight other games leading up to the final.

The news was announced this morning at simultaneous press events in Switzerland, Edmonton and here in Vancouver.

“The FIFA Women’s World Cup final is the pinnacle of women’s international soccer and the single largest women’s sporting event in the world,” Mayor Gregor Robertson said. “Millions of fans around the world will be focused on Vancouver for the final match and we look forward to welcoming international fans to the city and hosting a truly memorable celebration.

“We will be cheering for Team Canada from the opening match and hope the team will be part of an exciting final. The team’s exceptional play and bronze medal finish at the London Olympics was a huge inspiration for Canadians and especially young players.”

Twenty-four national teams will participate in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015 in a series of coast-to-coast games. Last year, Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montreal, Ottawa, and Moncton were all named host cities for the tournament.

The tournament is slated to run from June 6 to July 5, 2015.

“Vancouver’s parks and playing fields welcome thousands of children who learn and play soccer every year, rain or shine,” said Park Board Chair Sarah Blyth. “Having the best women soccer players in the world showcase their sport, passion and exceptional skills in Vancouver will be a tremendous inspiration for girls, young women and all the players who strive to play well and dream of competing at the highest levels.”